USA vs. Jamaica: US Will End Winless Qualifier Streak in Kingston

The U.S. national soccer team recently ended their 75-year winless run in Mexico, and tonight they will be looking to end another winless drought against Jamaica in Kingston.

Heading into tonight’s match, the U.S. has never won a World Cup Qualifier against Jamaica at National Stadium, but there’s reason to believe that streak will come to an end tonight.

The U.S. will have to overcome a number of hurdles if they are to capture a victory on Jamaican soil, but rest assured that coach Jurgen Klinsmann knows this.

Klinsmann has definitely brought in a seasoned group of players, including Clint Dempsey, who should be featured in tonight’s game after signing with Tottenham last Friday.

Dempsey had a difficult summer, and missed a substantial amount of playing time, but is still considered to be a threat.

Although Dempsey may not start for the U.S., Klinsmann may call upon him in the second half, as the team could definitely use a solid attacking midfielder. Dempsey has the ability to play on the left or the right and can find the goal from long distances.

According to the New York TimesKlinsmann said, “We are absolutely open to throw him in right away if he’s really in good physical condition and he’s feeling fine.”

Klinsmann has lost some crucial playmakers such as Landon Donovan, Michael Bradley and Joshua Gat. The absences of Donovan and Bradley may cause weaknesses in the midfield, which could give the Jamaicans a good attacking point.

Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images

Other key players for the U.S. who made history in Mexico are Terrence Boyd, Herculez Gomez, Fabian Johnson and Jozy Altidore.

These young men have the ability to push past Jamaica’s defense and cause havoc in the box and they’ve all managed to score for their respective club teams this season.

Rapid Vienna are lucky to have Boyd, who has scored four goals so far. Gomez has scored twice in five appearances for Santos Laguna, and Altidore has scored four goals in two games for Alkamaar AZ.

Klinsmann will most likely start Gomez with Altidore up front, which will be an exciting pairing.

Although the Jamaican team has speed and strength, its defense is relatively weak, and they don’t boast any exceptional talents.

Dane Richards is probably its best player due to his goal-scoring ability from midfield, but apart from Richards, there are not many notable hotshots to watch out for.

The U.S. will have to avoid mistakes defensively, play a controlled game and finish its chances in front in order to end its winless streak.